The Effect of Mist-Fertilizer Propagation on the Growth and Nutrient Content of Euphorbia pulcherrima and Chrysanthemum morifolium1

Abstract

Two cultivars of poinsettias and 3 cultivars of chrysanthemums were propagated under low concentration mist-fertilizer solutions to offset the problem of nutrient losses by leaching that occur under mist. Greater terminal growth, fresh weight, dry weight and degree of rooting resulted. Effects of mist-fertilizer propagation were permanent, so plants flowerd earlier, and had greater fresh and dry weights with increased numbers and larger size flowers. Significantly higher levels of N, P and K occurred in leaf tissue of cuttings that received a complete fertilizer as opposed to tap-water misted cuttings. The N, P and K content of chrysanthemum leaves was higher when cuttings were removed from the propagation bench than when they were inserted. There were differences due to cultivar but not to media when moisture conditions in the rhizosphere were adequate. Mist-fertilized chrysanthemum cuttings were not satisfactorily stored at 31-33°F.